A Lufthansa passenger plane carrying 351 passengers from San Francisco International Airport crashed into approach lights at Munich International Airport on Monday, just days after another flight experienced a similar incident on the same runway.
The aircraft struck the approach lights as it attempted to land, with investigators believing the pilots landed short of the runway threshold and were lower to the ground during their approach, ploughing through the lights. No injuries have been reported from either flight.
Vietnam Airlines Incident on Saturday
On Saturday, a Vietnam Airlines flight carrying 271 passengers crashed on the same runway. The tail of the aircraft struck the runway and lost tyre pressure as it attempted to take off to Hanoi. The plane had to circle Munich for two hours to burn fuel before it was able to land and be towed back to the gate. It is believed the Vietnam Airlines flight rotated too late, striking its tail on the ground.
The flight's crew ordered everyone to get into the brace position. A passenger named Mr Ninh, speaking to Dan Tri, described the experience: 'The nose of the plane lifted off the runway, and passengers heard a rather loud “pop” sound. Everyone looked at each other curiously, wondering what had happened. Inside the cabin, everyone started to panic. Looking through the window, I saw fuel being continuously released from both doors, and I was terrified.'
Passenger Recounts Terrifying Moments
Mr Ninh continued: 'In the seat next to me, a couple was praying continuously, and the wife was crying. At that moment, I didn’t have time to think; I quickly grabbed my small backpack, passport, and phone. When the plane landed safely, everyone in the cabin applauded, thanking the pilot and the flight crew for calmly handling the situation. After those tense moments, all the passengers were overwhelmed with emotion. Many hugged each other, breathing a sigh of relief.'
Investigation Underway
Germany's BFU accident investigation department has confirmed they are looking into the incidents. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam stated: 'After takeoff, warnings were triggered indicating contact between the aircraft’s tail and the runway and low tyre pressure. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam is currently liaising with the German investigation authority to coordinate efforts and request the prompt provision of information regarding the incident and the investigation process.'
